Empathy and support: How to help relatives with depression

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The challenge of support for depression

The topic of depression is not only a personal, but also a social concern that is often pushed into the background. Many people know it: a close person suffers from depression. This situation can be extremely stressful for both the person concerned as well as for their friends and family. It is important to provide the right support, to show both understanding and to gain the necessary knowledge.

The role of the support environment

The influence of friends and family plays a crucial role in the life of a person who suffers from depression. This support group can act as an essential source of emotional strength and stability. Josefina Pérez del Cerro, an expert in the field of psychotherapy at Ineco, emphasizes that it is essential to train the environment well so that it better understands what the sick person goes through. This is referred to as psicoeducación and helps relatives to recognize the symptoms and react appropriately.

important aspects of communication

A central aspect in support is the way communication. Often careless comments such as “It is not that bad” or “You just have to think positively” even even reinforce the suffering of those affected. Such statements can undermine the feeling of approval and understanding and lead to the person concerned feels isolated and misunderstood. emotional validation is therefore crucial: it is helpful to accept the feelings of the other and take it seriously.

empathy and support show

empathy and showing sympathy can be of great value when dealing with a depressed person. Instead of giving advice, it is more effective to simply listen and give the person space to express yourself. Sentences like "I am here if you want to talk" or "How can I help you?" show that you are willing to offer support without putting pressure.

activities and encouragement

Another important aspect is to gently encourage the sick person to actively encourage them to find them pleasant. It is important to do this without compulsion to respect the boundaries of the other. Suggestions such as walks together or the reputation of a film can be helpful to promote social interaction. These small steps are important to support the restoration of well -being.

effective strategies in dealing with depression

  • gentle feedback: you react with empathy when the person talks poorly, and offer support without trivializing the statements.
  • Positive reinforcement: You also recognize small progress and encourage new goals.
  • Promotion of self-determination: Leave the data subject to make their own decisions, even in everyday life.

conclusion: Individual support is the key

It is crucial to take into account the individual needs of the person concerned and to take advantage of professional support from psychologists or psychiatrists. With the right knowledge and a supporting environment, society can help relieve the suffering of people with depression and to enable them to improve their quality of life.

- Nag